Supreme Court Judgments

Sharp Business System v. Commissioner of Income Tax-III (2025 INSC 1481)

Non-compete fees are capital expenditure; however, depreciation is allowable as the payment creates a commercial or business right under Section 32(1)(ii) of the Income Tax Act.

The State of Kerala & Anr. v. M/s. Panacea Biotec Ltd. & Anr.

Supreme Court clarifies jurisdictional requirements for misbranding cases under the Drugs Act in State of Kerala v. Panacea Biotec.

ICICI Bank Limited vs. Era Infrastructure (India) Limited & Ors.

Supreme Court clarifies simultaneous insolvency proceedings under IBC in ICICI Bank vs. Era Infrastructure. Key implications for creditors and debtors.

The General Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra vs. Pradeep Kumar Agarwalla and Others

Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between lease and license in property rights in The General Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra vs. Pradeep Kumar Agarwalla.

SUHAS CHAKMA VERSUS UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

The Supreme Court mandates reforms in Open Correctional Institutions to enhance rehabilitation and dignity for prisoners in Suhas Chakma v. Union of India.

Vandana Jain & Ors. vs. The State of Uttar Pradesh & Ors.

Supreme Court quashes FIR against Vandana Jain, emphasizing civil nature of disputes under joint venture agreements. Key implications for legal practice.

M/S HAMDARD (WAKF) LABORATORIES VERSUS COMMISSIONER, COMMERCIAL TAX, U.P. COMMERCIAL

The Supreme Court clarifies the classification of Sharbat Rooh Afza under UPVAT, ruling it as a fruit drink liable for 4% VAT, not 12.5%.

Dr. Naresh Kumar Garg Vs. State of Haryana and Ors.

Supreme Court clarifies legal validity of sting operations under PCPNDT Act in Dr. Naresh Kumar Garg case. Key implications for medical practitioners.

Sitaram Kuchhbedia vs. Vimal Rana and Others

The Supreme Court reinstates murder conviction under Section 302 IPC in Sitaram Kuchhbedia vs. Vimal Rana, emphasizing vicarious liability under Section 149 IPC.

Amad Noormamad Bakali vs. The State of Gujarat & Ors.

Supreme Court affirms conviction under Section 135 of Customs Act but reduces sentence to time served. Key implications for legal practice.

New India Assurance Co. Ltd. vs. Rekha Chaudhary and Others

Supreme Court clarifies liability for penalty under Section 4A of EC Act in New India Assurance Co. Ltd. vs. Rekha Chaudhary.

Sriganesh Chandrasekaran & Others vs. M/s Unishire Homes LLP & Others

Supreme Court clarifies liability of landowners in joint development agreements in Sriganesh Chandrasekaran vs. M/s Unishire Homes LLP.

Union of India vs. Sistema Shyam Teleservices Limited

Supreme Court clarifies reserve price liability for telecom licenses in Union of India vs. Sistema Shyam Teleservices Limited, impacting telecom regulations.

M/s SBS Biotech & Others vs. State of Himachal Pradesh

Supreme Court ruling on record-keeping violations under the Drugs Act, clarifying legal consequences for pharmaceutical firms.

Parsvnath Developers Ltd. v. Mohit Khirbat & Ors.

The Supreme Court affirms the NCDRC's authority to award compensation for delays in possession delivery in Parsvnath Developers Ltd. v. Mohit Khirbat.

Power Trust vs. Bhuvan Madan & Ors.

Supreme Court's ruling in Power Trust vs. Bhuvan Madan clarifies key aspects of the IBC, including the validity of restructuring proposals and the initiation of CIRP.

Priyanka Kumari and Ors. vs. The State of Bihar and Ors.

Supreme Court rules against termination of librarians based on invalid degrees from Chhattisgarh University. Case: Priyanka Kumari vs. State of Bihar.

Gudipalli Siddhartha Reddy vs. State C.B.I.

The Supreme Court clarifies the application of Section 306 IPC in the case of Gudipalli Siddhartha Reddy, addressing suicide pacts and abetment.

Parameshwari vs. The State of Tamil Nadu

Supreme Court reinstates three-year sentence for IPC offences in Parameshwari vs. State, emphasizing deterrence and proportionality in sentencing.

Rakesh Mittal vs. Ajay Pal Gupta @ Sonu Chaudhary and another

The Supreme Court sets aside bail granted to Ajay Pal Gupta, emphasizing the need to consider criminal antecedents in bail decisions. Rakesh Mittal case.

Dinesh Kumar vs. The State of Haryana and Ors.

Supreme Court addresses nepotism in housing allotment by HEWO, ruling on eligibility and transparency in Dinesh Kumar vs. The State of Haryana.

Rohit Jangde vs. The State of Chhattisgarh

Supreme Court overturns Rohit Jangde's conviction due to insufficient evidence. Key legal principles on circumstantial evidence and investigation flaws discussed.

Manoj v. State of Maharashtra & Anr.

Supreme Court's ruling in Manoj v. State of Maharashtra clarifies legal standards under the Essential Commodities Act, impacting future prosecutions.

Zubair P. vs. State of Kerala & Ors.

Supreme Court clarifies eligibility criteria for Higher Secondary School Teachers under Kerala Rules in Zubair P. vs. State of Kerala.

The Tiruchirappalli District Cricket Association vs. Anna Nagar Cricket Club & Anr.

The Supreme Court clarifies the inapplicability of S. Nithya directions to cricket associations in The Tiruchirappalli District Cricket Association case.

Harbinder Singh Sekhon & Ors. vs. The State of Punjab & Ors.

Supreme Court quashes Change of Land Use for cement unit in Punjab, emphasizing adherence to PRTPD Act and environmental safeguards.

Balmukund Singh Gautam vs. State of Madhya Pradesh and Anr.

Supreme Court clarifies anticipatory bail principles under Section 438 in Balmukund Singh Gautam case, emphasizing absconding accused's ineligibility.

Pawan Kumar & Ors. vs. Union of India & Ors.

Supreme Court rules on the regularization of casual workers in Pawan Kumar case, emphasizing fair treatment and equality in employment.

Union of India Through Its Secretary & Ors. vs. SGT Girish Kumar and Ors. Etc.

Supreme Court clarifies disability pension rights under Armed Forces Tribunal Act, ensuring no limitation on arrears claims in Union of India v. SGT Girish Kumar.

N. Manoharan, etc. vs. The Administrative Officer and Another

Supreme Court rules that employees of Heavy Water Plant are excluded from the Payment of Gratuity Act, impacting their retirement benefits.

Hemlata Eknath Pise vs. Shubham Bahu-uddeshiya Sanstha & Ors.

Supreme Court reviews High Court's remand order in Hemlata Eknath Pise case, emphasizing the need for comprehensive consideration of all issues.

K. Rajaiah vs. The High Court for the State of Telangana

Supreme Court reverses dismissal of K. Rajaiah for alleged forgery of medical certificate, emphasizing fair inquiry standards.

Zeba Khan vs. State of U.P. & Others

The Supreme Court annulled bail granted to Zeba Khan, emphasizing the gravity of forgery in legal qualifications. Key implications for legal practice discussed.

Abdul Khalek & Others vs. The State of Assam & Others

The Supreme Court clarifies the State's constitutional obligation to protect reserved forests under Article 48A in Abdul Khalek & Others vs. The State of Assam.

In Re: Order dated 17.03.2025 Passed by the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad in Criminal Revision No. 1449/2024 and Ancillary Issues

The Supreme Court reinstates serious charges under IPC and POCSO Act, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in sexual offence cases. Case: In Re: Order dated 17.03.2025.

Dr. Anand Rai vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Anr.

Supreme Court quashes SC/ST Act charges against Dr. Anand Rai, clarifying legal standards for framing charges under the Act.

J. Muthurajan & Anr. Versus S. Vaikundarajan & Ors.

The Supreme Court clarifies the legal standing of partition deeds and conciliation awards in family disputes in J. Muthurajan & Anr. vs. S. Vaikundarajan & Ors.

THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER AND SPECIAL LAND ACQUISITION OFFICER VERSUS M/S S.V. GLOBAL MILL LIMITED

The Supreme Court clarifies the interplay of Section 74 of the 2013 Act and the Limitation Act, impacting land acquisition appeals. Case: THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER V. M/S S.V. GLOBAL MILL LIMITED.

Sumit vs. State of U P & ANR.

Supreme Court clarifies that anticipatory bail under Section 438 CrPC is not limited to a fixed period, ensuring protection continues until trial completion.

STATE OF ODISHA & ORS. VERSUS MANAGING COMMITTEE OF NAMATARA GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL

The Supreme Court clarifies the standards for condonation of delay under Section 5 in State appeals, emphasizing the need for sufficient cause in Odisha's case.

Amit Kumar & Ors. vs. Union of India & Ors.

In Amit Kumar & Ors. vs. Union of India & Ors., the Supreme Court directs the appointment of Dr. T.C.A. Anant as Technical Consultant for data analysis.

Kanta and Others vs. Soma Devi (Dead) Through LR. and Others

Supreme Court clarifies property rights under Hindu law in Kanta vs. Soma Devi, emphasizing maintenance claims and possession requirements.

V. PATHMAVATHI & ORS. VERSUS BHARTHI AXA GENERAL INSURANCE CO. LTD & ANR.

Supreme Court clarifies compensation assessment under Section 166 in V. Pathmavathi case, emphasizing future prospects and loss of consortium.

STATE OF WEST BENGAL & ORS. VERSUS JAI HIND PVT. LTD.

The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of review powers of Revenue Officers under the WBEA Act in the case of State of West Bengal vs. Jai Hind Pvt. Ltd.

Tharammel Peethambaran and Another vs. T. Ushakrishnan and Another

Supreme Court clarifies the validity of power of attorney under Section 33 in Tharammel Peethambaran vs. T. Ushakrishnan.

ITC LIMITED VERSUS AASHNA ROY

Supreme Court modifies compensation awarded to Aashna Roy in ITC Limited case, emphasizing evidence requirements under consumer law.

JANE KAUSHIK VERSUS UNION OF INDIA & ORS.

Supreme Court in Jane Kaushik case expands Advisory Committee for transgender rights, appointing new member for enhanced representation.

Pramod Kumar Navratna vs. State of Chhattisgarh & Others

The Supreme Court clarifies the legal position on consent and false promises in rape cases in Pramod Kumar Navratna vs. State of Chhattisgarh.

Shashin Patel and Anr. vs. Uday Dalal and Ors.

Supreme Court clarifies membership rights under the Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act in Shashin Patel case, impacting housing society governance.

Reginamary Chellamani vs. State Rep By Superintendent of Customs

The Supreme Court grants bail to Reginamary Chellamani under the NDPS Act, emphasizing the right to legal representation and expediting trial processes.

Rupesh Kumar Meena vs. Union of India & Others

The Supreme Court dismisses Rupesh Kumar Meena's appeal for cadre reallocation, emphasizing finality in selection processes.

Mohtashem Billah Malik vs. Sana Aftab

Supreme Court sets aside High Court's custody order, emphasizing children's welfare in Mohtashem Billah Malik vs. Sana Aftab.

M/s Eminent Colonizers Private Limited vs. Rajasthan Housing Board and Ors.

The Supreme Court rules on the validity of arbitration clauses in construction contracts, impacting dispute resolution processes. Case: Eminent Colonizers vs. Rajasthan Housing Board.

Pramod Kumar & Ors. vs. State of Uttar Pradesh Ors.

The Supreme Court clarifies that only a Magistrate can order further investigation under Section 173(8) of CrPC in Pramod Kumar & Ors. vs. State of Uttar Pradesh.

U.P. JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL COUNCIL INSTRUCTOR WELFARE ASSOCIATION VERSUS STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH & ORS.

The Supreme Court rules that part-time instructors in U.P. are entitled to a revised honorarium of Rs. 17,000 per month, effective from 2017-18.

Vinit Bahri and Another vs. M/s MGF Developers Ltd. and Another

The Supreme Court clarifies the definition of 'consumer' under the Consumer Protection Act in Vinit Bahri vs. MGF Developers, emphasizing the burden of proof.

Ankhim Holdings Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. vs. Zaveri Construction Pvt. Ltd.

The Supreme Court clarifies that arbitration proceedings during a moratorium under IBC are not automatically void, impacting future arbitration cases.

P. Suresh vs. D. Kalaivani & Ors.

The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of the High Court's supervisory powers under Article 227 in P. Suresh vs. D. Kalaivani & Ors., emphasizing the need for specific remedies.

C. Velusamy vs. K Indhera

The Supreme Court clarifies that an application under Section 29A for extending the arbitrator's mandate is maintainable even after an award is rendered, ensuring effective arbitration.

Sandeep Singh Bora vs. Narendra Singh Deopa & Ors.

The Supreme Court reinforces the bar on judicial interference in Panchayat elections under Article 243-O in Sandeep Singh Bora vs. Narendra Singh Deopa.

Rajia Begum vs. Barnali Mukherjee

The Supreme Court rules on the non-arbitrability of disputes involving allegations of forgery in Rajia Begum vs. Barnali Mukherjee, emphasizing the need for clear arbitration agreements.

Satinder Singh Bhasin vs. Col. Gautam Mullick & Ors.

The Supreme Court confirms the initiation of insolvency proceedings against corporate debtors in a real estate project, emphasizing the fulfillment of statutory requirements.

Mayankkumar Natwarlal Kankana Patel & Anr. v. State of Gujarat & Anr. (2025 INSC 1475)

LOREM IPSUM

Tarachandra v. Bhawarlal & Anr. (2025 INSC 1485)

Supreme Court holds that mutation of land records can be granted on the basis of a will, clarifying that revenue authorities cannot reject testamentary mutation applications at the threshold under the Madhya Pradesh Land Revenue Code.

State of Uttar Pradesh & Anr. v. Mohd. Arshad Khan & Ors. (2025 INSC 1480)

Supreme Court holds that High Courts cannot grant blanket protection from arrest or impose routine investigation timelines while declining to quash FIRs, reaffirming limits of writ jurisdiction and binding precedent on criminal procedure.

Union of India & Ors. v. Pranab Kumar Nath (2025 INSC 1479)

Supreme Court reiterates limits of judicial review in disciplinary matters and holds that High Courts cannot interfere with punishment unless it shocks the conscience or violates service rules.

Kousik Pal vs. B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre & Ors.

The Supreme Court reinstates the authority of the WB Clinical Establishments Commission to adjudicate on medical negligence, emphasizing patient care standards in Kousik Pal vs. B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre.

K.P. Kirankumar @ Kiran v. State by Peenya Police (2025 INSC 1473)

Supreme Court upholds conviction under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, holding that credible testimony of a minor victim can sustain conviction and that minor inconsistencies or procedural irregularities do not vitiate the trial.

M/s. Surguja Bricks Industries Company v. State of Chhattisgarh and Ors.

The Supreme Court holds that proportionate experience gained as a joint venture partner must be considered in tender evaluation unless the eligibility clause expressly excludes such experience.

Siddhant Mahajan and Ors. v. The State of Rajasthan and Ors.

In 2025 INSC 1458, the Supreme Court holds that only the Central Government may lower NEET percentile for BDS admissions and modifies the High Court’s directions.

Jatinder Kumar v. Jeewan Lata

In Jatinder Kumar v. Jeewan Lata (2025 INSC 1463), the Supreme Court dissolved a marriage after long separation using Article 142 and fixed ₹20 lakh permanent alimony.

The State of Telangana vs. Mir Jaffar Ali Khan (Dead) Thr. LRS. & Ors.

The Supreme Court affirms the status of disputed land as government property, rejecting claims by successors of Salar Jung III in Telangana.

Lakshmanan v. State through the Deputy Superintendent of Police & Ors.

In Lakshmanan v. State (2025 INSC 1483), the Supreme Court annuls a High Court bail order for ignoring prior bail cancellation and witness intimidation risks.

Baburam Gautam and Others v. State of Uttar Pradesh and Another (2025 INSC 1493)

Supreme Court invokes Article 142 to quash specified criminal proceedings and dissolve a marriage by mutual consent after verifying a settlement placed before the Court.

Rajesh Upadhayay v. State of Bihar & Anr.

Supreme Court holds that suspension of sentence in murder convictions cannot be granted routinely and requires exceptional circumstances and cogent judicial reasoning under Section 389 CrPC.

Bharat Mittal v. State of Rajasthan & Ors. (2025 INSC 1459)

Supreme Court holds that convicted directors can be required to deposit 20% under Section 148 NI Act even when the company cannot be prosecuted due to liquidation, clarifying limits of exemption and strengthening cheque dishonour enforcement.

Ranjeet Baburao Nimbalkar v. State of Maharashtra & Anr. (2025 INSC 1460)

Supreme Court upholds Chief Justice’s continuing power under Section 51(3) of the States Reorganisation Act to appoint additional High Court sittings, clarifying limits of judicial review and reinforcing access to justice.

Ramesh Kumar Jain v. Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO)

Supreme Court reiterates that High Courts cannot re-appreciate evidence or rewrite arbitral awards under Section 37, and restores a reasoned arbitral award upheld under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.

M/s. Carborandum Universal Ltd. v. ESI Corporation

In M/s. Carborandum Universal Ltd. v. ESI Corporation (2025 INSC 1455), the Supreme Court holds Section 45A cannot be invoked when records are produced and inspection is not obstructed.

Radhika T. v. Cochin University of Science and Technology & Others (2025 INSC 1462)

Supreme Court holds that communal rotation applies even during the validity of a rank list and that wait-listed candidates have no indefeasible right to appointment.

Civil Appeal arising out of Special Leave Petition (Civil) No. 14966 of 2025

LOREM IPSUM

Telangana State Level Police Recruitment Board v. Penjarla Vijay Kumar & Ors. (2025 INSC 1452)

Supreme Court rules that continuous possession of a driving licence requires uninterrupted legal validity, and renewal after expiry does not retrospectively restore continuity under recruitment eligibility rules.

K. S. Dinachandran Versus Shyla Joseph & Ors.

The Supreme Court upheld the validity of a will excluding one child from inheritance, emphasizing the testator's intent and sound mind in K. S. Dinachandran case.

M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGENCO) v. M/s Tecpro Systems Limited & Ors.

In 2025 INSC 1447, the Supreme Court holds that Section 11 courts must only conduct a prima facie review of arbitration agreement existence and leave jurisdictional objections to the arbitral tribunal.

Phool Singh v. Randheer Singh & Others (2025 INSC 1492)

Supreme Court holds that a civil revision does not abate in entirety merely due to delay in impleading legal heirs of one respondent and restores the matter for adjudication on merits.

State of Uttar Pradesh v. Krishna Murari Sharma (2025 INSC 1500)

Supreme Court holds that prolonged delay in raising an industrial dispute can justify substituting reinstatement and back wages with lump sum compensation, while still upholding illegality of termination.

Srinibas Goradia v. Arvind Kumar Sahu & Ors.

In 2025 INSC 1467, the Supreme Court holds that dominant nature of duties determines ‘workman’ status and restores Labour Court’s reinstatement award.

Maram Nirmala & Anr. v. State of Telangana & Anr. (2025 INSC 1496)

Supreme Court quashes criminal proceedings against in-laws in a dowry case where allegations were vague and omnibus, reiterating safeguards against misuse of Section 498A IPC.

North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. v. M/s L. Doulo Builders and Suppliers Co. Pvt. Ltd. (2025 INSC 1446)

Supreme Court holds that SARFAESI Act cannot be invoked in Nagaland without legislative approval under Article 371A and without creation of a valid security interest in favour of the lender.

Raj Pal Singh v. Rajveer & Ors., Criminal Appeal No. 809 of 2014

Supreme Court upholds acquittal in a Section 302 IPC murder case, reiterating limits on appellate interference, presumption of innocence, and proof beyond reasonable doubt.

Cement Corporation of India v. ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. Ltd.,

Supreme Court holds that once loss is caused by fire, insurer liability attaches regardless of antecedent theft, strictly construing RSMD exclusions and setting aside wrongful repudiation of a fire insurance claim. Fire Insurance Claims Cannot Be Repudiated Merely Because Fire Was Triggered by Theft: Supreme Court

State of Uttar Pradesh through Principal Secretary & Ors. v. Milkiyat Singh & Ors.

Supreme Court holds that State reorganisation does not automatically convert a cooperative society into a multi-State cooperative society unless its objects extend beyond one State under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.

M/s National Insurance Co. Ltd. v. Neeru Devi & Ors. (2025 INSC 1430)

Supreme Court rules that motor accident compensation must be based on realistic income assessment, setting aside speculative calculations and reaffirming that just compensation cannot amount to a windfall for claimants.

Moideenkutty v. Abraham George (2025 INSC 1428)

Supreme Court holds that suppression of a subsisting mortgage in an agreement for sale constitutes breach of contract and entitles the purchaser to refund of advance, restoring the trial court’s decree.

The Director of Town Panchayat & Ors. v. M. Jayabal & Ors. (2025 INSC 1423)

Supreme Court reiterates that compassionate appointment is a limited humanitarian concession to address immediate financial distress and cannot be reopened to claim a higher post after employment has been accepted.

Sithara N.S. & Ors. v. Sai Ram General Insurance Company Limited (2025 INSC 1425)

Supreme Court dismisses motor accident compensation claims where claimants fail to prove involvement of alleged offending vehicle, reaffirming evidentiary standards under Section 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act.

The Secretary to Government, Social Welfare and Nutritious Meal Programme Department v. P. Perumal (2025 INSC 1470)

LOREM IPSUM

Pradeep Arora & Ors. vs. Director, Health Department, Govt. of Maharashtra & Ors.

The Supreme Court clarifies requisitioning of healthcare services during COVID-19, impacting insurance claims under PMGKY. Case: Pradeep Arora & Ors.

Central Bureau of Investigation v. Dayamoy Mahato & Ors. (2025 INSC 1418)

Supreme Court clarifies that Section 436-A CrPC does not apply to offences punishable with death and holds that prolonged incarceration alone does not mandate bail in cases involving grave offences.

M/s. Saraswati Wire and Cable Industries v. Mohammad Moinuddin Khan and Others

In 2025 INSC 1410, the Supreme Court restores CIRP, holding that illusory pre-existing disputes cannot defeat an operational creditor’s Section 9 IBC application.

Mohan Lal Fatehpuria v. M/s Bharat Textiles & Ors. (2025 INSC 1409)

Supreme Court holds that once an arbitrator’s mandate expires under Section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, courts must substitute the arbitrator and cannot revive or extend the expired mandate.

M/s Shri Karshni Alloys Private Limited v. Ramakrishnan Sadasivan (2025 INSC 1411)

Supreme Court upholds forfeiture ordered by the NCLT for failure to comply with extended payment timelines in liquidation sales, holding that such forfeiture is not governed by contract law principles.

Vineeta Srinandan v. High Court of Judicature at Bombay on its Own Motion

In Vineeta Srinandan (2025 INSC 1408), the Supreme Court holds that bona fide apology in criminal contempt may justify remission of sentence under Section 12.

National Cooperative Development Corporation v. Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax

Supreme Court rules that deductions under Section 36(1)(viii) of the Income Tax Act are available only for income directly derived from long-term finance, excluding dividends, short-term deposit interest, and service charges earned as a nodal agency. Legal Judgment Explainer

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. v. BCL Secure Premises Pvt. Ltd. (2025 INSC 1401)

Supreme Court reiterates that arbitration cannot be imposed on a non-signatory without clear consent, setting aside Bombay High Court order and clarifying limits of Section 11 jurisdiction under the Arbitration Act.

Ashok Kumar Dabas (Dead Through Legal Heirs) v. Delhi Transport Corporation (2025 INSC 1404)

Supreme Court holds that resignation results in forfeiture of past service and bars pension, but does not affect statutory gratuity and leave encashment payable under independent legal regimes.

Amal Kumar & Ors. v. The State of Jharkhand & Anr.

In Amal Kumar v. State of Jharkhand (2025 INSC 1402), the Supreme Court quashed an FIR under the SC/ST Act, finding no dispossession or public-view caste abuse.

Akola Municipal Corporation and Anr. vs. Zishan Hussain Azhar Hussain and Anr.

The Supreme Court affirms the Akola Municipal Corporation's authority to revise property taxes, highlighting the importance of local governance and fiscal autonomy.

Harshbir Singh Pannu and Anr. v. Jaswinder Singh

The Supreme Court clarifies that termination of arbitral proceedings for non-payment of fees is referable to Section 32(2), yet in exceptional circumstances a substitute arbitrator may be appointed to resolve the dispute.

Salil Mahajan v. Avinash Kumar & Anr.

Supreme Court sets aside grant of anticipatory bail where the High Court failed to consider the need for custodial interrogation and relevant investigative material, reiterating limits on mechanical bail orders in serious economic offences.

Govind Mandavi v. State of Chhattisgarh (2025 INSC 1399)

Supreme Court acquits murder accused, holding that conviction cannot rest on belatedly improved eyewitness testimony when the accused was not named in the earliest report and forensic evidence is inconclusive.

Dadu @ Ankush & Anr. v. State of Madhya Pradesh & Anr. (2025 INSC 1395)

Supreme Court acquits accused after finding prosecution evidence inconsistent and uncorroborated, reiterating that conviction must rest on proof beyond reasonable doubt.

Adarsh Sahkari Grih Nirman Swawlambi Society Ltd. v. State of Jharkhand & Others (2025 INSC 1389)

Supreme Court holds that executive instructions cannot impose additional conditions that defeat statutory stamp duty exemptions granted to cooperative societies.

State of Jharkhand v. The Indian Builders Jamshedpur (2025 INSC 1388)

Supreme Court holds that excepted or prohibited claim clauses in contracts bind arbitral tribunals and refers the issue to a larger Bench for authoritative clarification.

Sandeep Singh Thakur vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Another, Criminal Appeal No.5256 of 2025

Supreme Court quashes conviction and sentence in a false promise of marriage case after the parties reconciled and married. Detailed legal explainer on Sections 376(2)(n) and 417 IPC, Article 142 powers, and implications for consent, criminal liability, and government employment.

Sonia Virk v. Rohit Watts (2025 INSC 1390)

Supreme Court upholds divorce on ground of irretrievable breakdown and enhances permanent alimony to ₹50 lakh, emphasising financial dignity, child welfare, and fair settlement in long-separated marriages.

Smt. Bollamalathi vs. B. Suguna and Ors.

The Supreme Court clarifies the rules regarding General Provident Fund nominations in Smt. Bollamalathi vs. B. Suguna, emphasizing the importance of valid nominations.

Rani @ Raj Kumari & Ors. v. Kamlakat Gupta & Ors., Civil Appeal No. 5224 of 2024

Supreme Court enhances compensation in motor accident case, clarifying assessment of income, multiplier, future prospects, and non-pecuniary losses such as consortium. Detailed analysis for practitioners and law students.

Mukut Das v. Assam Power Generation Corporation Ltd. & Ors. (2025 INSC 1403)

Supreme Court holds that employees retiring on the last day of a month are entitled to pay revision effective that date, clarifying the scope of Fundamental Rule 56(a) and revised pay rules.

State of Karnataka & Anr. v. Taghar Vasudeva Ambrish & Anr. (2025 INSC 1505)

Supreme Court holds that leasing residential premises for use as hostels providing long-term accommodation qualifies for GST exemption as renting of residential dwelling for use as residence prior to the 2022 amendment.

Bhaskar Govind Gavate (Deceased) through Legal Heirs v. State of Maharashtra & Others (2025 INSC 1379)

Supreme Court holds that contempt jurisdiction cannot be declined where prior judicial directions are clear and allegations of non-compliance require factual examination.

Rocky v. State of Telangana & Anr. (2025 INSC 1384)

Supreme Court holds that criminal proceedings alleging cheating and intimidation cannot be quashed at the threshold where prima facie allegations disclose the essential ingredients of the offences.

Mission Accessibility v. Union of India & Others (2025 INSC 1376)

Supreme Court directs UPSC to ensure meaningful accessibility in public examinations by permitting change of scribe requests and planning implementation of assistive technologies for candidates with disabilities.

Kangra Central Cooperative Bank Limited v. The Kangra Central Cooperative Bank Pensioners Welfare Association (Regd.) & Ors. (2025 INSC 1416)

Supreme Court holds that a second special leave petition is not maintainable after withdrawal or dismissal of an earlier challenge without liberty, reinforcing finality and procedural discipline in litigation.

Abhishek Gupta v. Dinesh Kumar & Ors. (2025 INSC 1406)

Supreme Court holds that an intra-court appeal by a non-party is maintainable where a writ order prejudicially affects his rights, emphasising natural justice and access to justice.

Rousanara Begum v. S.K. Salahuddin @ Sk Salauddin & Anr. (2025 INSC 1375)

Supreme Court holds that divorced Muslim women can recover marriage gifts under the 1986 Act even if given to the husband, emphasising dignity, equality, and social justice.

Venkatesh & Another v. State represented by the Inspector of Police (2025 INSC 1383)

Supreme Court upholds conviction but reduces sentence to period already undergone, holding that proportionality, substantial incarceration, and subsequent settlement can justify leniency at the sentencing stage.

Tuhin Kumar Biswas @ Bumba v. State of West Bengal, Criminal Appeal No. 5146 of 2025

The Supreme Court quashes criminal proceedings in a property dispute, holding that FIR allegations under Sections 341, 354C, and 506 IPC disclosed no strong suspicion, and reiterates discharge principles under Section 227 CrPC. Supreme Court Explains Discharge Standards and Misuse of Criminal Process in Property Disputes

Commissioner of Customs, Central Excise & Service Tax, Rajkot v. Narsibhai Karamsibhai Gajera & Ors.,

The Supreme Court clarifies that excise duty exemption for cotton fabrics is unavailable where any integral stage of an integrated manufacturing process uses power, even if carried out across separate units. Legal Judgment Explainer

Jyoti Builders v. Chief Executive Officer, Slum Rehabilitation Authority & Ors. (2025 INSC 1372)

Supreme Court holds that rehabilitation of slum dwellers does not confer land rights on developers; land acquisition under the Slum Act cannot proceed without first extinguishing the landowner’s preferential right and following statutory procedure.

BPL Limited v. Morgan Securities and Credits Private Limited (2025 INSC 1380)

Supreme Court upholds enforceability of high contractual interest in bill discounting transactions, clarifying Section 31(7) Arbitration Act, public policy limits, and commercial autonomy in arbitration.

In Re: 2 Million Lives at Risk, Contamination in Jojari River, Rajasthan (2025)

The Supreme Court of India modifies stay on NGT orders, affirms constitutional right to a healthy environment, and creates a High-Level Ecosystem Oversight Committee to address chronic pollution of Rivers Jojari, Bandi and Luni affecting two million lives in Rajasthan.

SPECIAL REFERENCE NO. 1 of 2025

The Supreme Court clarifies the powers of the Governor under Articles 200 and 201 in Special Reference No. 1 of 2025, addressing justiciability and discretion.

Dinesh Kumar Jaldhari vs. State of Chhattisgarh

The Supreme Court upholds the conviction of Dinesh Kumar Jaldhari under the POCSO Act, modifying the sentence to six years of imprisonment.

The State of Karnataka By Its Chief Secretary vs. State of Tamil Nadu By Its Chief Secretary & Others

Supreme Court rules on Karnataka's Mekedatu project, affirming its right to prepare a Detailed Project Report while addressing Tamil Nadu's objections.

T. N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India and Others

Supreme Court transfers High Court Writ Petition challenging sanction for prosecution of forest officer in Corbett Tiger Reserve case. Court emphasizes judicial discipline, procedural propriety, and exclusive jurisdiction for sanction challenges while accepting officer’s apology.

Lipi Boilers Ltd. vs. The Commissioner of Central Excise, Aurangabad

The Supreme Court rules that the value of bought out items for boilers is not included in excise duty assessment in Lipi Boilers Ltd. case.

Suo Moto Contempt Petition (Civil) No. 3 of 2025

The Supreme Court addresses the responsibility of lawyers in making allegations against judges, emphasizing the need for respect and integrity in legal proceedings.

Suo Moto Writ Petition (Civil) No. 5 of 2025

Supreme Court issues directives for managing stray dogs, ensuring public safety in institutional areas. Case: Suo Moto Writ Petition (Civil) No. 5 of 2025.

Ravi Prakash Srivastava & Ors. vs. State of Uttar Pradesh & Ors.

Supreme Court orders an independent committee to resolve disputes regarding a stalled housing project involving multiple allottees and financial irregularities.

Muskan v. Ishaan Khan (Sataniya) & Ors., Criminal Appeal No. 4752 of 2025

Supreme Court sets aside Madhya Pradesh High Court order quashing a dowry cruelty FIR, holding that High Courts cannot assess credibility or conduct a mini trial while exercising powers under Section 482 CrPC. Supreme Court Restores Dowry Cruelty FIR, Holds High Court Cannot Conduct Mini Trial at Quashing Stage

State of Chhattisgarh vs Amit Aishwarya Jogi

The Supreme Court clarifies the appeal rights of the State and victims in acquittal cases involving CBI investigations in State of Chhattisgarh vs Amit Jogi.

Umesh Yadav & Ors. v. State of Bihar (2025 INSC 1336)

Supreme Court grants benefit of juvenility at appellate stage, orders release of one accused, and modifies life sentences of co-accused to fixed terms considering age, delay, and statutory limits under juvenile justice law.

Rekha Minocha vs Amit Shah Minocha & Ors.

Supreme Court dissolves marriage under Article 142, awarding Rs. 1 crore as alimony in Rekha Minocha vs Amit Shah Minocha.

K. Nagendra v. The New India Insurance Co. Ltd. & Ors, Civil Appeal Nos. of 2025 (Arising out of SLP (C) Nos. 7139-7140 of 2023)

Supreme Court upholds pay-and-recover principle; insurer liable to compensate accident victims despite route deviation, with right to recover from insured. Legal Judgment Explainer

Criminal Appellate Jurisdiction

Supreme Court of India judgment in Om Pal & Ors vs State of U.P (Uttarakhand): Analysis of convictions under Sections 302/307 IPC, eyewitness evidence, motive, and appellate proceedings. Comprehensive legal explainer for lawyers and law students

Prof. Ashish Wakhlu v. Prof. Soniya Nityanand and Others

Supreme Court quashes High Court's dismissal of contempt application in Prof. Ashish WakhlU v. Prof. Soniya Nityanand, emphasizing the importance of interim orders.

Novenco Building and Industry A/S v. Xero Energy Engineering Solutions Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. (2025 INSC 1256)

Supreme Court holds that continuing intellectual property infringement may constitute urgent interim relief under Section 12A of the Commercial Courts Act, exempting such commercial suits from mandatory pre-institution mediation.

Jane Kaushik v. Union of India & Ors.

Supreme Court ruling on transgender rights under the 2019 Act highlights discrimination and calls for effective implementation of protective measures.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL U.P. LUCKNOW & ORS. vs. SUSHIL KUMAR & ORS.

Supreme Court clarifies limits on CBI inquiries in recruitment matters in Legislative Council U.P. case, emphasizing judicial restraint.

G. PRASAD RAGHAVAN vs. UNION TERRITORY OF PUDUCHERRY

Supreme Court quashes charges against G. Prasad Raghavan under IPC Section 420, clarifying liability and discharge under Section 239.

Hansraj vs. State of U.P.

Supreme Court rules on juvenile rights under Section 7-A in Hansraj vs. State of U.P., emphasizing the importance of age in criminal proceedings.

Atul J. Doshi & Ors. v. Pramukh Properties and Developers Pvt. Ltd. (2025 INSC 1345)

Supreme Court holds that interim courts cannot award liquidated damages without trial but must secure arrears and ongoing license fee under Order XV-A CPC, clarifying limits of interim relief in licensor–licensee eviction disputes.

SRI CHIKKEGOWDA & ORS. VS. STATE OF KARNATAKA ETC.

Supreme Court ruling on the significance of eyewitness testimony in criminal cases, highlighting legal standards under IPC in Chikkegowda vs. State of Karnataka.

Swacch Association, Nagpur v. State of Maharashtra & Ors. (2025 INSC 1199)

Supreme Court holds that man-made lakes constructed for irrigation or drinking water are excluded from the definition of wetlands under the 2017 Rules, upholds recreational structures at Futala Lake, and reiterates balanced application of environmental protection and public trust principles.

Anilkumar @ Lapetu Ramshakal Sharma v. State of Maharashtra & Ors. (2025 INSC 1198)

Supreme Court orders premature release of a life convict after nearly 22 years, holds that erroneous remission categorisation under Maharashtra’s 2010 policy cannot justify continued incarceration, and reiterates proportionality and fairness in executive remission decisions.

Rajendra Singh & Ors. vs. State of Uttaranchal, Criminal Appeal Nos. 476-477 of 2013

In Rajendra Singh & Ors. vs. State of Uttaranchal, the Supreme Court set aside the High Court's conviction under Section 302 IPC, acquitting three accused in a murder case. The ruling emphasizes reliable eyewitness evidence, proper identification, and careful application of Sections 25-27 of the Indian Evidence Act.I

Vinishma Technologies Pvt. Ltd. vs. State of Chhattisgarh & Anr.

Supreme Court quashes discriminatory tender conditions in Vinishma Technologies Pvt. Ltd. vs. State of Chhattisgarh, reinforcing Article 14 rights.

Nazim & Ors. v. State of Uttarakhand (2025 INSC 1184)

Supreme Court acquits accused in murder case, holding that circumstantial evidence must form a complete and unbroken chain, and that omission in FIR, weak last-seen theory, unreliable identification, and inconclusive forensic evidence cannot sustain conviction.

P. Radhakrishnan & Anr. vs. Cochin Devaswom Board & Ors.

Supreme Court limits High Court's authority in license fee disputes, emphasizing natural justice in P. Radhakrishnan vs. Cochin Devaswom Board.